Change Service Requested Service Change

FRESNO, CA FRESNO,

Fresno, CA 93740-8001 CA Fresno, Permit No. 262 No. Permit

5245 N. Backer Ave. M/S PB 4 PB M/S Ave. Backer N. 5245 PAID

and Armenian Students Organization Students Armenian and U.S. Postage U.S.

Armenian Studies Program Studies Armenian

Non-Profit California State University, Fresno University, State California

HYE SHARZHOOM th Armenian Action 28 FA|

December 2006 Vol. 28, No. 2 (96) Ethnic Supplement to The Collegian Society for Holds 32nd Annual Meeting in Boston-Academic Panels Explore , Armenian Press, and Global Trade Networks STAFF REPORT was the conference headquarters. an opportunity for scholars to ap- One panel was “Historical proach the issue from differing Professor Barlow Der Memory and Identity: Exploring viewpoints. More than fifty schol- Mugrdechian of the Armenian the Impact of the Events of 1915- ars were in attendance at the panel, Studies Program traveled to Bos- 1916 in Armenian and Turkish Lit- and engaged in an exchange of ideas ton, MA, the weekend of Nov. 18 erature,” organized by Barlow Der with the panel participants. This and 19 to participate in the 32nd Mugrdechian and chaired by Rich- dialogue will continue over the next Annual Membership meeting of the ard G. Hovannisian of UCLA. Pan- few months. Society for Armenian Studies elists were Barlow Der Another panel, “Narrative and (SAS). In addition, he participated Mugrdechian, California State Uni- Identity in the Armenian Press, in the annual Middle East Studies versity, Fresno, “Three Apples Fell 1850-1923,” was organized by Association conference. from Heaven: Memory and Iden- Victoria Rowe. The panel was The SAS is an international or- tity in Post Genocide Armenian chaired by Barlow Der ganization, which represents schol- Literature;” Hülya Adak, Sabanci Mugrdechian of California State ars and teachers in the field of Ar- University (), “The Arme- University, Fresno. Panelists were menian Studies. Der Mugrdechian nian Deportations in Turkish Fic- Lisa Khachaturian, Georgetown has been the SAS treasurer for the tion;” and Rubina Peroomian, University, “Cultivating Nation- past two years. President Joseph UCLA, “The Metamorphosis of the hood in Imperial : The Peri- Kéchichian conducted the meet- L. to R.: Dr. Hülya Adak, Dr. Ayshe Gül Altinay, Barlow Der Post-Genocide Armenian Identity odical Press and the Formation of a ing, where members gathered to Mugrdechian, Dr. Rubina Peroomian, and Dr. Richard as Reflected in Artistic Literature.” Modern Iden- hear reports on the activities of the Hovannisian. Photo: Mark Mamigonian Ayshe Gül Altinay of Sabanci Uni- tity;” Victoria Rowe, Chuo Uni- Society over the past year, on Sat- special reception at ALMA head- While in Boston, SAS members versity (Istanbul) was the discus- versity, Japan, “The Politics of urday, November 18. quarters in Watertown. There, SAS participated in three SAS sponsored sant for the panel. Exile: An Armenian Women’s Following the membership members enjoyed a tour of the ex- panels, on a variety of themes. All This groundbreaking panel Journal in Egypt, 1902-1904;” and meeting, the Armenian Library and hibits at the museum, followed by of the panels were held on Sunday, brought together Armenian and Lerna Ekmekcioglu, New York Museum of America (ALMA) in- food and refreshments shared with November 19, in the Boston Turkish scholars to examine the vited SAS members and guests to a members and friends of ALMA. Marriott Copley Place Hotel, which Genocide through literature. It was SEE SAS PAGE 3 Dr. Levon Chookaszian Leads Audience Reception at Holy Etchmiadzin for Publication of in Journey Through Armenian Version of Album of Armenian Paleography ZHANNA BAGDASAROV ing to Dr. Chookaszian, this church MOTHER SEE OF EDITOR has recently undergone restoration HOLY ETCHMIADZIN work carried out by the Turkish INFORMATION SERVICES A large crowd devoted to all government. things Armenian gathered at the Throughout the lecture, Dr. The Feast of the Holy Transla- Alice Peters Auditorium at 7:30PM Chookaszian provided explanations tors, one of the most beloved and on November 15 to listen to Dr. for why some Armenian artworks celebrated days among the Arme- Levon Chookaszian’s final lecture remained and others disappeared nians, was noted with special sig- entitled, “Armenian Art Treasures with time. Artworks of the 11th cen- nificance in the Mother See of Holy Saved from the Genocide.” Dr. tury survived better than those cre- Etchmiadzin this year. On Satur- Chookaszian, the 6th Henry S. ated in the 12th century, which is day, October 14, the Armenian Khanzadian Kazan Visiting Pro- attributed to their obliteration by translation of the Album of Arme- fessor in Armenian Studies for Fall the Seljuk Turks, whereas the nian Paleography was officially 2006, is spending the current se- Bagratunis are credited with sav- unveiled and presented to the pub- mester instilling a love for Arme- ing various artworks of the 11th lic in the headquarters of the Arme- nian art in his students, as well as century. Furthermore, though many nian Church. The event took place the audience attending his lectures. of these treasured pieces were hid- in the Pontifical Residence of Holy His passion for the topic has been den during the time of the Geno- Etchmiadzin, under the presidency evident throughout his lecture se- cide, the Turks succeeded in find- of His Holiness Karekin II, Su- Dr. Dickran Kouymjian, Director of the Armenian Studies Program, ad- dressing guests at the reception honoring the publishing of the Armenian ries and stay in Fresno, but it was preme Patriarch and Catholicos of SEE CHOOKASZIAN PAGE 4 language edition of the Album of Armenian Paleography. especially apparent as he progressed All . through his last talk. The original English language having it published by the Mother As the ceremony began, Azat The beautifully illustrated version of the Album was published See. The primary benefactor for Bozoyan welcomed the attendees slideshow accompanying the lec- by the Aarhus University Press in the publication of the Armenian and expressed his gratitude to the ture began with timeless images of Denmark in 2002. The editors of translation of the Album is the Catholicos of All Armenians for Aghtamar, the famous palatine this definitive work are Professors Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund the creation of this important con- church erected in 915-921 AD by Michael E. Stone, Dickran (USA). tribution to Armenian culture and King Gagik Artsruni, on the island Kouymjian and Henning Lehmann. The translation and editing work science. He noted the significance of Aghtamar, in Lake Van. These The album comprehensively stud- of the Armenian version was ac- of continuing the mission of the illustrations showed the magnifi- ies and interprets ancient forms of complished through the endeavors Mother See in publishing similar cent mural paintings, based on the Armenian writing. of Aram Topchian and Gohar works, which were initiated by , within the interior On the occasion of the 1600th Muradian, researchers at the Karekin Hovsepiants of blessed of the church, as well as the carved Anniversary of the Creation of the “ ” memory (later Catholicos of biblical scenes on the exterior, with , His Holiness Institute of Ancient Manuscripts in Cilicia) in 1913 in Holy themes from the Old Testament. Karekin II authorized the “Karekin ; and Azat Bozoyan, Di- Etchmiadzin. The superb workmanship withstood I Armenological & Theological rector of the “Karekin I On behalf of the authors, Pro- the test of time and one of the most Center” of Holy Etchmiadzin to Armenological & Theological Cen- fessor Dickran Kouymjian, Direc- beloved examples of Armenian art “The Raising of Lazarus,” pursue the Armenian translation of ter.” The album was published by treasures was preserved. Accord- by Toros Roslin (13th c.) this seminal work with the goal of the Tigran Mets Publishing House. SEE ALBUM PAGE 8 2 Hye Sharzhoom December 2006 Armenian Studies Program California State University, Fresno Book/Video/CD/Archival Gifts Dr. Dickran Kouymjian and the Armenian Studies Pro- Armenian Studies Program gram would like to thank the donors, authors, and pub- lishers for the following books, periodicals, videos, and Spring 2007 Schedule of Courses archival gifts either offered personally or to the Program. Course Units Time Day Instructor General Education L’Année de l’Arménie. The Year of in France September 21, 2006 – July 14, 2007. Social Sciences, Area D3 Armenian Children’s Camp of Tuzla. A story of Seizure, Human Rights • ArmS 10 Intro to Arm Studies 3 10:00-10:50A MWF B. Der Mugrdechian Association Istanbul Branch, The Committee against Racism and Discrimination (Class #32514) (Ankara, 2000), trilingual, Turkish, English, Armenian, an exhibition catalogue, with preface by Orhan Pamuk and postface by Hrant Dink, 64 pages, chronicles the history of the seizure by the Turkish government of an Armenian camp for Arts & Humanities, Arts, Area C2 orphans. An appendix lists 157 properties belonging to Greeks, Armenian and • Arm 1B Elementary Armenian 4 11:00-11:50A MTWF B. Der Mugrdechian Jews seized by the Turkish Government. (Class #32512) Ara Baliozian, Kitchener, Ontario, for several of his books on a variety of topics. Arts & Humanities, Arts, Area C1 Anna Ballian, editor, Benaki Museum. A Guide to the Museum of Islamic Art (: Benaki Museum, 2006), 199 pages. A descriptive illustrated catalogue • ArmS 20 Arts of Armenia 3 DIGITAL CAMPUS D. Kouymjian of the Benaki’s rich collection of Islamic art. Gift of the author. (Class #33357) Brill Academic Publishers, Bedfordshire, UK, for the copy of the book • ArmS 20 Arts of Armenia 3 DIGITAL CAMPUS D. Kouymjian Beyond the Legacy of Ghenghis Khan. Heidi and Helmut Buschhausen, Codex Etschmiadzin, Kommentar, Graz (Class #33612) (Austria: Akademische Druck, 2001), 224 pages in folio. This is the companion Upper Division Courses volume to the facsimile edition of the entire Etchmiadzin Gospels, a profound • ArmS 108B Arm History II 3 9:30-10:45A TTh B. Der Mugrdechian study in the early history of illustrated Armenian gospel book. Gift of the authors. Patrick Cazals, Rouben Mamoulian, L’Age d’or de Broadway et Hollywood, (Class #36362) Video Documentary. First major documentary on Mamoulian with live footage • ArmS 120 T 1 5:00-9:50P Friday T. Bozigian of Mamoulian and authors (including Prof. Dickran Kouymjian) who have (Class #36511) 9:00A-5:00P Saturday written about him. 64 minutes, available at [email protected]. Gift of Mr. Cazals. Class will meet February 2 & 3, 2007. Valentina Calzolari, Anna Sirinian, Boghos Levon Zekiyan, Dall’ Italia e • ArmS 123 Arm Architecture 3 DIGITAL CAMPUS D. Kouymjian dall’ Armenia. Studi in onore de Gabriella Uluhogian (Bologna, 2004), festschrift (Class #33675) in honor of the Armenologist Gabriella Uluhogian. 405 pages. Karekin Devedjian, Fish and Fishery in (in Turkish), (Istanbul: Aras Press, 2006), 574 pages, a re-edition of the 1926 publication. The definitive study Arts & Humanities, Arts & Humanities, Integration, Area IC of Turkish fishing and the varieties of fish in and around Turkish waters. The • Arm 148 Mstrps Arm Cult 3 9:00-9:50A MWF B. Der Mugrdechian author is the grandfather of Patrick Devedjian, the French politician and Maire of (Class #32513) Anthony. Courtesy of Aras Press. Arpiar Der Markarian, The Echo and the Passenger, Stories and Memories, in Armenian (Istanbul: Aras Press, 2006), 335 pages. One of Turkey’s foremost For more information call the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669 Armenian writers (1889-1970. Courtesy of Aras Press. or visit our offices in the Peters Business Building, Room 384. The Destruction of Jugha and the Entire Armenian Cultural Heritage in Get a minor in Armenian Studies. Check on requirements Nakhijevan, Documentation submitted to UNESCO in October 2006 by an International Parliamentary Delegation (Bern: Parliamentary Group Switzer- for the Minor in Armenian Studies in the 2006-2007 catalog. land, 2006), 90 pages of documentation accompanied by a CD. Copies can be ordered directly at http://www.armenian.ch. Vardan Devrikyan, The Transfiguration and the Feast of Vardavar (in Arm.) (Erevan, 2006), 87 pages. An art historical study of how the feast of Vardavar was HYE SHARZHOOM incorporated into the Christian celebration of the Transfiguration of Christ. An English version has also been published. Gift of the author. Lerna Ekmekcioglu and Melissa Bilal, editors, A Cry for Justice. Five FA|

Cineculture Series Features Armenian Films 2007-2008

STAFF REPORT Academic Year Scholarships in Armenian Studies Fresno State’s weekly https://scholarship.csufresno.edu/ Cineculture Film Series spotlighted films with an Armenian theme on Friday, October 20. In addition, Make sure to mark one of the areas pertaining to four panelists were invited to com- Armenian Studies on the application ment on the films shown and to answer questions raised by the au- Priority Application Period: dience. September 1, 2006-November 30, 2006 Special guest speaker Vickie Smith-Foston of Sacramento joined For applications to be considered you must also complete the Dr. Matthew Jendian (Sociology), special Armenian Studies supplemental form Barlow Der Mugrdechian (Arme- which can be found at: nian Studies), and Fresno State http://armenianstudies.csufresno.edu/scholarships.htm graduate Bernadette Moordigian, to discuss and comment on the two L. to R.: Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Vickie Smith-Foston, Fill out the form and turn it in at the ASP office, featured films. Bernadette Moordigian, and Dr. Matthew Jendian. Peters Business Building, Room 384. Araz Artinian’s The Genocide spiracy of Silence, which docu- denial had become part of Turkey’s For more information contact in Me, and J. Michael Hagopian’s ments her discovery of her international foreign policy. the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669. California Armenians: The First grandmother’s apparent identity Many of the questions from the SAS, FROM PAGE 1 ago in Boston by Dr. Richard Generation, were screened, with a crisis that led to her tragic suicide audience were about the current University, “How to Mother a Na- Hovannisian (UCLA), the late Dr. question and answer period imme- in the 1950s. Smith-Foston dis- situation in Armenia, while others tion: Perspectives from the Arme- Avedis Sanjian (UCLA), Dr. diately following. cussed the concept of identity and were about the Armenian Geno- nian Women’s Journal Hay Gin Dickran Kouymjian (AUB and later Dr. Jendian opened the evening how being part Armenian had af- cide and the current efforts to pass (The Armenian Woman) (1919- Fresno State), Dr. Robert Thomson with a power-point presentation, fected her own life. Genocide resolutions in various 1923).” (Harvard), and Dr. Nina Garsoïan serving as an introduction to the Moordigian commented on her countries. The final SAS sponsored panel (Columbia). They set the founda- films. He covered some early Ar- mixed Armenian and Mexican Denise Blum (Curriculum and was on “Circulation and the Global tions of a Society, which today has menian history, before focusing on roots, and how ethnic identity had Instruction) is the coordinator for Trade Networks of Armenian Mer- more than 200 members worldwide the reasons why Armenians immi- become a way for her to explore the Cineculture Film Series, whose chants from Julfa, Isfahan,” which and is the leading organization in grated in great numbers to the both sides of her heritage. purpose is to promote cultural was organized by Sebouh Aslanian the field of Armenian Studies. United States, especially beginning Der Mugrdechian responded to awareness and address diversity and chaired by Razmik Panossian. The SAS is dedicated to the de- in the late nineteenth century. questions with comments on the issues through film and post-screen- The panelists were Sebouh velopment of Armenian Studies as Vickie Smith-Foston is the au- Turkish government denial of the ing discussions. Aslanian, Columbia University, an academic discipline. It has as its thor of Victoria’s Secret: A Con- and how that “From “Trade Diaspora” to “Cir- goals to promote the study of Ar- culation Society”: The Multi-Nodal menia and all aspects of Armenian Tom Bozigian To Continue Tradition of Armenian Trade Network of the Julfan Arme- culture; to promote the teaching of nians in the Early Modern Period;” Armenian subjects in educational Dance at Fresno State, February 2 and 3, 2007 Francesca Trivellato, Yale Univer- institutions; to promote the publi- sity, “Business Cooperation Within cation of texts in various fields of CAITLIN TIFTICK and Across Trading Diasporas: A Armenian studies; to organize and STAFF WRITER Comparative Analysis of Sephardic sponsor conferences, symposia, and Armenian Merchant Networks panels, and other forums pertain- At the early age of six, Tom in the Early Modern Period;” Houri ing to all aspects of Armenian cul- Bozigian began learning Armenian Berberian, California State Univer- ture and society; and to facilitate dances at the old St. Paul Armenian sity, Long Beach, “The Sceriman/ the exchange and dissemination of Church in downtown Fresno, Cali- Shahrimanians between Julfa and scholarly information pertaining to fornia. Now, for the fifth time at : Information Networks and Armenian studies through a pro- Fresno State, he will pass down the Commercial Prosperity of an Ira- gram of publications, consistent tradition of Armenian dance in a nian-Armenian Family;” and with the objectives of the SAS. one-unit course on Friday, Febru- Bhaswati Bhattacharya, Interna- More information is available ary 2 and Saturday, February 3, tional Institute of Asian Studies, about SAS and its programs by 2007. “All the Milk and Honey of Spain contacting the SAS Secretariat, at The Armenian Studies Program Flow to Manila: Armenians in the 559-278-2669 or at the SAS home offers the dance course, which is Madras-Manila Trade in the 18th page http:// the only such course offered for Century.” armenianstudies.csufresno.edu/sas/ credit at a university in the United Tom Bozigian with Armenian dance students from Spring The SAS was founded 32 years index.htm States. Students of all majors are 2004 class. Bozigian’s new class will take place in 2007. welcome to register for the week- Ensemble and competed in various tant to continue the cultural tradi- end and members of the commu- festivals. tion by educating and teaching fu- California State University, Fresno nity may participate as well for a Currently, Bozigian continues ture generations. Armenian Studies Program small fee of $75. to spread Armenian art through both “I am rewarded by the legacy I Instructor Tom Bozigian has a dance and music. He resides in Los hope to leave, just like my teachers wealth of knowledge in the area of Angeles where he is the director of have been rewarded – my father, Armenian Studies 120T- Armenian dancing. He brings a mix an Armenian Folk Orchestra, which grandfather, and uncle left songs of dances from different regions of plays in the Southern California and dances with rich ethnographi- Armenian Dance Armenia: on his mother’s side area and at various functions. He cal and anthropological data that dances from the region of Kharpert also teaches twelve-week dance are our duty to retain and pass on,” (Learn how to dance traditional Armenian dances) and on his father’s side from the courses throughout the year. said Bozigian. conducted by region of Shirag. Students will learn about and So gather up your family and Even at a young age, Bozigian dance some ten dances over the friends and spend the weekend of Tom Bozigian was fascinated by the style and two-day course. The dances will February 2nd and 3rd at Fresno State Friday, February 2, 2007 • 5-10 PM movements of the first immigrants. come from a variety of regions in- learning Armenian dance from the By the time he reached 15, Bozigian cluding Kharpert, Van, Shirag, and world-renowned instructor Tom Saturday, February 3, 2007 • 9 AM-5PM had learned many dances, repre- others. Most of the music for the Bozigian. senting six regions of both Western course has been recorded by For more information on the Meet in the South Gym, Rm. 134-Fresno State and Eastern Armenia. Bozigian. Armenian Dance course and how Fresno State students enroll through After attending the University The Armenian dance course is a to enroll, call the Armenian Studies of Pacific Stockton International great way to expose students to the Program at 559- 278-2669. on-line registration. Folk Dance Camp, Bozigian started traditions of the Armenian culture For more information on Tom teaching Armenian dance and trav- both artistically and musically. By Bozigian, please visit The course is open to the public eled the world performing Arme- taking the course, students will be www.bozigian.com. for a fee of $75. nian dances both through Arme- able to participate at local Arme- To register for the class contact the nian and non-Armenian folk dance nian festivals, weddings, and other Armenian Studies Program Armenian Studies Program or organizations. events. All of the course partici- web page Later, Bozigian danced competi- pants will be able to take home come to the first class session. tively between 1972 and 1975, knowledge of the song and dance http:// while studying dance at the State history of the Armenian people. armenianstudies.csufresno.edu Contact the Armenian Studies Program, 278-2669, Choreographic Academy in Arme- Bozigian teaches Armenian for more information. nia. He performed for an Amateur dance because he feels it is impor- 4 Hye Sharzhoom December 2006 Eench ga Chga? Der Mugrdechian Presents Armenians of Fresno ALEX BUNCH SVETLANA BAGDASAROV-STAFF WRITER STAFF WRITER

Question: “If you had the opportunity to visit Armenia, On Thursday, November 16, where would you visit first, and why?” Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian of the Armenian Studies Program Name: Erin Surabian gave a one-hour talk about “The Major: Speech Pathology Armenians of Fresno,” to an audi- Year: Junior ence at the San Joaquin Gardens in I would first like to visit Fresno. He had previously spoken Etchmiadzin, because I have to the same group about the writer learned so much about this William Saroyan on Thursday, church from many Armenian November 9. Studies courses. The presentation included a his- tory of Armenian immigration to the United States and the story of Photo: Joe Vasquez the Seropians, the first family to Barlow Der Mugrdechian of the Armenian Studies Program permanently settle in Fresno in gave a presentation on author William Saroyan to an audience 1881. Prof. Der Mugrdechian ex- at the San Joaquin Gardens on November 9. He continued the plained that most Armenians, be- series on Nov. 16, speaking about the Armenians of Fresno. Name: Hagop Ohanessian fore 1914, immigrated from the 52,000 Armenians immigrated to The final part of the lecture was Major: Business Ottoman Turkish Empire, and even- the United States. The main reason on some of the prominent Arme- Year: Sophomore tually settled in East Coast cities for the large increase in immigra- nians who were born in Fresno, If I were to visit Armenia, I such as New York, Boston, and tion was due to persecution of the among them Kirk Kirkorian, who would visit the ancient Arme- Worcester, MA. Armenians in the Ottoman Empire- became a successful tycoon, buy- nian churches first. Since I The first Armenian immigrant thus many Armenians looked for a ing MGM studios and then devel- have taken Armenian Studies to the shores of America was a man more secure life in the United States. oping the MGM hotel in Las Ve- 20, I was able to learn about named Martin the Armenian, who The Armenians of Fresno estab- gas, NV. Armenian art and the beautiful was recorded as arriving in the lished a variety of businesses, most The lecture was organized and churches. I would also like to Jamestown Colony, Virginia, in of them were initially agricultur- very informative. It was very inter- visit the Martyr’s Monument 1617. After a relatively slow pace ally related: vineyards, orchards, esting to see how the Armenians in order to pay tribute to those of immigration until the 1880s, the and packing houses. Aside from very quickly became successful in who died in the Genocide. Fi- Armenian population in the United agriculture, the Armenians estab- just two or three generations in nally, I would like to see Mount States grew fairly quickly. Between lished shoe repair shops, oriental America. Ararat because Noah’s Ark landed on this mountain. 1843 and 1890, there were approxi- rug stores, churches, and a variety If anybody is interested in learn- mately 1,500 Armenians arriving of community institutions. Der ing more about the Armenians and to the United States. From 1891 to Mugrdechian discussed how the their history, they can enroll in an Name: Ani Menendian 1898, another 12,500 Armenian community is organized and how it Armenian Studies course at Fresno Major: Undeclared arrived and from 1899 until 1914, functions. State. Year: Sophomore If I had the opportunity to go back to Armenia, I would defi- Heirs of Armenian Genocide Victims Receive Almost nitely visit the Martyr’s Monu- ment first. I believe that all $8 Million Dollars from the New York Life Settlement Armenians, at least once in their lives, should visit this memo- (Los Angeles, CA) able to right a 90 year old injustice. Letters will me mailed to all rial. I would also like to see Settlement checks totaling “Ten years ago compensating claimants. Checks will be included Khor Virab again, because of $7,954,362 were distributed to more these Armenians was a mere dream, for those claimants that were its amazing history and view of than 2,500 descendants of those today I am overjoyed that this castle awarded compensation. Of the . killed during the Armenian Geno- in the sky has become reality,” nearly $8 million in checks, Arme- cide of 1915. These checks resulted stated , one of nians in Armenia will receive the Name: Darren Janigian from the multi-million dollar settle- the lead attorneys who represented most, roughly $3.7 million, fol- Major: Engineering ment reached in a class action law- the Armenian heirs and who origi- lowed by Armenians in the United Year: Senior suit brought against New York Life nally conceived of this case twenty States who will receive almost $2.7 I would visit Kharpert, because Insurance Company. The lawsuit, years ago. “This settlement was a million. Armenians in France oc- rd my great-grandparents came originally filed in November 1999, small measure of justice for the cupy the 3 place and will receive from historic Armenia and stemmed from New York Life’s Armenians,” said Yeghiayan. a total of $656,413. In all, Arme- even though it is now a part of non-payment of life insurance ben- The Settlement Board, the body nians in 26 countries will receive Turkey, I have always wanted efits for those who died in the Ar- created by the Federal District Court compensation. to get a better idea of my menian Genocide. These payments, to handle the distribution of the For questions about the settle- family’s heritage. together with the $3 million dollars settlement, reviewed 5,692 claims ment, contact the settlement board already distributed to various Ar- and found that 2,515 of them could at (213) 327-0740. menian charitable organizations, be traced to Armenians who had Vartkes Yeghiayan, Esq, Benjamin Photos: Barlow Der Mugrdechian puts an end to a historic and purchased life insurance policies Charchian, Esq, Yeghiayan & As- groundbreaking case which was from New York Life prior to 1915. sociates CHOOKASZIAN, FROM PAGE 1 ing the places through torture. When loud and clear. With every mention discovered, the hiding places were of a surviving piece it was pains- looted. takingly obvious that many Arme- Hye Sharzhoom is The lecture continued with a nian artworks were destroyed dur- on the Web presentation of other examples of ing the very dark period of Arme- surviving Armenian art. The glori- nian history. Those that managed armenianstudies.csufresno.edu/ ous Zeitun and Malatia Gospels of to endure are now scattered around the 13th century provided an amaz- the world. hye_sharzhoom/index.htm ing example of painter Toros Roslin The lecture undoubtedly left at his best. The Zeitun Gospel, is many feeling resentful and help- Read back issues of also known as “The Gospel of War,” less against the forces that had rav- Hye Sharzhoom because the Armenians of Zeitun aged Armenia. These feelings would take an oath upon the Gos- though, must have been accompa- at the Armenian pel to fight until their last breath, nied by relief and comfort knowing Studies Program before going into battle. Parts of that remnants of glorious days past this Gospel are currently housed at have endured to educate our pos- home page. the Getty Museum in Los Angeles. terity. Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Left to Right: ASO President, Grigor Kyutunyan, Dr. Levon Other gospels, such as the Queen All three of the lectures pre- Let us know what Keran and King Vasak Gospels, sented by Dr. Levon Chookaszian Chookaszian, and former ASO President and Fresno State were also depicted. These survived provided the audience with an op- Armenian Alumni and Friends President, Arakel Arisian. you think-write a and are now housed in the St. James portunity to gain knowledge about works not commonly known. At- nian community and looked upon letter to Hye Monastery in . Armenian art. Each lecture offered tending the lectures made it clear to as occasions to broaden one’s hori- As the lecture progressed, the a new outlook and information all that opportunities such as these zons. Sharzhoom. message of the evening was heard about Armenian artists and their should be embraced by the Arme- December 2006 Hye Sharzhoom 5 Rafael Atoian’s “Motherland” Exhibit at Fresno State President’s Gallery November 2-30

SARAH SOGHOMONIAN the country. “He changed Arme- “Street in Leninakan,” is part of STAFF WRITER nian art forever,” said his son Avo. former president George H. W. “He’s the Cezanne of Armenian Bush’s private collection. Bush The work of famed Armenian painters.” acquired it on a trip to Armenia in artist, and now Fresno resident, Color plays a large role in the 1980’s. It now hangs in his Rafael Atoian was on display Atoian’s art. His watercolor and Washington gallery. throughout the month of Novem- oil paintings are rich golden hues. Atoian immigrated to the United ber in the President’s Gallery on “They call him the golden artist States in 1995 with his wife Ludmila the Fresno State campus. because he uses a lot of gold and and two of their three children. The The exhibit titled “Motherland” yellows in his paintings,” Avo images of Armenia that Atoian showcased Atoian’s great talent and Atoian said. loves to paint are now only memo- love for his Armenian homeland. Atoian’s art is on display ries embedded in his mind. “My motivations are always Ar- throughout the world. His life-like As for the future, Atoian says menian,” Atoian, 75, said. “I al- stills and landscapes hang in that he will continue to paint until ways make sure my art has a taste Yerevan, Paris, Moscow, San Fran- the day he dies. of Armenia.” cisco, and Los Angeles. The collection of watercolor and oil paintings on display were pure Armenian. A landscape titled “Lavash,” by Rafael Atoian. Photos: Megan West “Sevan” depicts the famed lake. “Lavash,” a watercolor of women house his job was to take care of his nation of Armenia,” Avo Atoian making Armenian bread, hung for family,” he said. “ How can an said. all to see. An oil painting titled artist provide for his family?” An example of that realism is “Evening Bells” featured a beauti- Despite his parent’s initial dis- evident in “Butter Churn,” one of ful Armenian Church. approval, Atoian continued to at- Atoian’s favorite pieces. The paint- Atoian, a self-proclaimed “na- tend art school. He practiced his ing of butter being made hangs in tionalist artist,” was born in Gumri, craft at the Mergorov Art Institute the National Gallery of Armenia in Armenia, but lived the majority of and the Terlemezian Art School of Yerevan. his life in Yerevan. Yerevan. Atoian also attended the Atoian gained fame and recog- Atoian’s 3rd grade teacher dis- Yerevan Art and Theater Institute, nition throughout Soviet Armenia. covered his artistic ability when he where he graduated with distinc- In 1982 he was named “master drew a map of the world for a class tion. painter” by the Republic of Arme- assignment. His teacher enrolled Realism is key to Atoian’s work. nia. The Soviet government showed him in art school. Atoian’s son, His art depicts aspects of daily life. their admiration for Atoian by pre- Avo, said his father’s parents didn’t Atoian paints what he knows. “He senting him with a medal and ban- Artists Rafael Atoian (right) with Barlow Der Mugrdechian. approve. “As the oldest boy in the is inspired by his people and the ning the removal of his work from Atoian’s art reflects his feelings for Armenia. Kazan Visiting Professor Levon Chookaszian Gives Armenians on the Internet His Second Lecture On Armenian Art CAITLIN TIFTICK Makhokian and PATEEL MEKHITARIAN STAFF WRITER Melkon Kebabjian. STAFF WRITER Makhokian was a On October 18 Dr. Levon painter of sea-scapes ArmSite Chookaszian, Kazan Visiting Pro- and revealed his per- fessor in Armenian Studies, gave sonal feelings to- www.armsite.com the second of his three-part lecture wards the Genocide series. Titled “Armenian Libera- through his works. Main Categories: tion Struggle and Genocide Re- Kebabjian painted The Internet is a magnificent tool to become more informed about the flected in Armenian Art,” the pre- tragic scenes sym- beautiful Armenian culture, which includes many forms of art. sentation covered artists who de- bolically reflecting Armenian carpets, stone carvings, paintings, miniatures, and lan- picted the Armenian Genocide in the Genocide. guage are extremely distinctive. their art. One of the most One of the first Armenian paint- famous Armenian Brief Summary: ers to depict the Genocide was artists, Arshile Gorky www.armsite.com is a very informative website, which has a great painter and art historian Arshag was a refugee from description of some forms of Armenian art. Armenian painters, Fetvajian. He is known for his wa- Van. His mother died different Armenian rugs and carpets, Armenian miniatures, and tercolors and especially for his work in Etchmiadzin when maps of Armenia are all offered on this site. Each of these sections in decorating the St. Kevork he was just a young are clearly separated and introduced by a small description. The (Kamoyants) Church and the Mon- boy. His portrait, reader may click on the link to each heading and read about each “Mother and Son,” section in more detail. Under Armenian painters for example, a astery of the Virgins (Kusanats) in “Mother and Son,” by Arshile Gorky. Tiflis. One of his most famous paint- was based on an old number of brilliant painters are presented with their biographies and ings, “The Woman of Sassoon,” unsheltered, desperate refugees in photograph, and has a gallery of their works. The artists include Hovhannes Aivazovsky, depicts a child protected by his the vicinity of the Cathedral of numerous versions. One version is Martiros Saryan, Minas Avetisian, Hakob Hakobyan, and many mother. The child symbolizes the Etchmiadzin. held in the Whitney Museum in others. The link to Armenian rugs and carpets provides detailed future Armenia. On the opposite spectrum from New York, and the other is held in information about when the Armenians began making carpets and Another artist that was men- Katchadourian, an artist by the the Chicago Institute of Art. the different styles of carpets and rugs that were made. In addition, tioned during the lecture was Sarkis name of Hovsep Pushman, por- The theme of these artists’ works there are a variety of images portraying many beautiful carpets under Katchadourian. He studied in Paris trayed still-lives, which condensed was clear–they all represented the the gallery link. Armenian miniatures are also described in a very and created numerous illustrations his nostalgia for a lost homeland. Armenian people suffering. detailed fashion, explaining how and when they were made, where portraying Armenian refugees. His His most famous painting of young Works by artists such as Oragian, they were made, and who created them. works include: the depiction of a girl holding a flower, “Esperance,” Carzou, Tutundjian, and Jansem poor girl dancing for money to sur- [Hope] was donated by Pushman’s were also shown. Their art reflected the trauma of the Genocide and vive, women refugees on a ship family to Woodrow Wilson. The Fresno State’s unaware of their destination, and donation was made in recognition post-Genocide era. of the efforts of Through Dr. Chookaszian’s lec- Armenian Radio Show President Wil- ture, attendees were able to learn son, the Ameri- about new facets of the expression can govern- of the Armenian Genocide through “Hye Oozh” ment, and Near art. They were also able to see some East Relief, in paintings that are not-available for organizing re- viewing in museums. Every Saturday morning lief for Arme- For more information about up- from 9:00AM-noon nians and Ar- coming events sponsored by the menia. Armenian Studies Program, please Additional visit http:// KFSR 90.7 FM artists shown in armenianstudies.csufresno.edu/ the presenta- events. “The Woman of Sassoon,” by Arshag Fetvajian. tion included On the internet at www.kfsr.org! 6 Hye Sharzhoom December 2006 Element Band Brings New Energy to Traditional Armenian Music through many of the songs, but also sible to the older fans, to whom they faces, while enjoying the last few letting her true talent show while are more familiar; however, this moments of the memorable night. taking the lead. Chris was found did not prevent the younger audi- An encore performance of the behind the drum set, laying down ence from enjoying it as well. These song “Porompero” was played in the rhythm for the pieces, while songs were then followed by songs response to the crowd’s applause, bringing order to the group. Fi- played in English, which shared a which concluded the concert per- nally there was Jeremy, who em- similar romantic theme. fectly. Overall, this concert was phasized the rhythms, blending “Estranged,” “Masquerade,” and very upbeat and had wonderful in- them perfectly with Chris’ drum- “If I May,” all newer additions to dividual and combined perfor- ming, and often taking the lead by their repertoire, appealed a lot to mances by each of the band mem- playing a wide variety of styles. the younger fans and possessed bers. This rather young band, with There was an obvious comfort that unique qualities. They then per- the ability to capture the attention they shared with each other on stage, formed more Armenian songs, of both the young and old, charmed and were often found improvising which included “Noubar,” the audience throughout the show the songs they chose to play. This “Noune,” and “The Macedonian.” with the traditional Armenian comfort expanded also to the audi- These last three songs helped end pieces played mainly off of their Photo: Vache Geyoghlian ence, with whom they spoke be- the first half very energetically, giv- album Yev O Phe, as well as the SEBOUH KRIOGHLIAN tween songs, as if they knew each ing the audience a lot to look for- newer songs that they had written STAFF WRITER other personally. This natural com- ward to after the intermission. in English. The title of their first stringed instruments throughout the fort helps them create a warm at- The second half of the perfor- album is very interesting in that it On Sunday, November 12 at performance. It’s hard not to allow mosphere, making their concerts mance had a similar pattern to it, represents the last two letters of the 5PM, the Element band performed his humble stage presence to fool much easier to enjoy. going from Armenian to English, Armenian alphabet, added later in at the Veterans Memorial Audito- you into thinking the leads he plays They started off the evening by and back to Armenian. The songs Armenian history in order to help rium in Fresno, California. are simple, but they are far from it. playing an instrumental piece, performed were “Anoush Karoun,” reproduce the sounds made by Element consists of members Meanwhile, Saro Koujakian, re- which helped set the upbeat mood, “Ganchoumeme Ari,” “Tricycle European languages. In essence, Ara Dabandjian, Saro Koujakian, sponsible for much of the while warming up the musicians as Girl,” “Arabian Nights,” “Yarko these last two letters symbolize the Shant Mahserejian, Gars songwriting for the English pieces, well as the crowd. Some beautiful Parag Boyeet,” “Hars Em spirit of the band, which blends Sherbetdjian, Chris Daniel, and lent his deep, graceful voice, while Armenian songs that were modern- Genoom,” “Anoush Hayrenik,” and Latin, Mediterranean, and other Jeremy Millado. Dabandjian, re- also playing rhythm guitar. ized with Latin and Mediterranean “Ailooghes.” The last two songs, musical styles, while creating a sponsible for the musical arrange- Then there was the most ener- styles followed this piece, which helped end the show with a bang, unique form of Armenian music ments, fusing Greek and Latin getic of the group, Shant, playing included: “Mekhagner,” “Ayn where the crowd, encouraged by all their own. sounds with traditional Armenian the violin while also involving the Kisher,” “Ambets Gorav,” and the band, started to line dance around The concert was sponsored by folk music fluidly, was constantly crowd, by clapping or playfully “Sareri Hovin Mernem.” Their ren- aisles of the auditorium. This was the Armenian Technology Group. switching from accordion, to key- dancing on stage. Gars sang beau- ditions of these older, traditional a rather enjoyable sight, as every- board, to guitar as well as other tifully, backing Saro’s vocals Armenian songs were very acces- one had huge smiles across their

BOOKS, FROM PAGE 2 Mae Medzadoorian, Fresno, for a collection of Armenian records. Shahen Mkrtchyan, Vandalism. A Collection of Evidential and Docu- Armenchik’s Performance Exceeds All mentary Materials about the Destruction and Misappropriation of the Heritage of Armenian-Christian Culture in Azerbaijan (Erevan: Noyan Expectations in Los Angeles Concert Tapan, 2005), 104 pages. Based on documents and before and after photos, it shows the willful destruction of Armenian monument. Claude Mutafian, editor, Les Lusignans et l’Outre-Mer, Proceedings of SVETLANA BAGDASAROV a conference in Poitier-Lusignan, October 1993, n.d., n.p. [Poitiers, 1994?], STAFF WRITER 323 pages. Gift of the editor. Artak Movsisyan, Armenian Hieroglyphs (in Arm.) (Erevan: Erevan On the evening of Friday, No- University, 2003), 271 pages, full illustrated with drawing of all Armenian vember 17, Armenian pop singer hieroglyphic writing. Gift of the author. Armenchik surpassed all expecta- Artak Movsisyan, The Writing Culture of Pre-Mashtotsian Armenian (in Arm.) (Erevan: Armenian University Press, 2003), 397 pages, a presentation tions as he performed live in con- of cuneiform and other writing forms in geographical Armenia prior to the cert inside the Kodak Theatre in invention of the alphabet. Gift of the author. Los Angeles, California. The highly Artak Movsisyan, Armenia in the Third Millennium before Christ, Based anticipated concert was sold out as on Written Documents (in Arm.) (Erevan: Erevan University, 2005), 176 soon as tickets finally went on sale. pages with maps and illustrations. Gift of the author. Although it was difficult for the Artak Movsisyan, Armenia in the Spiritual Geography of the Ancient young performer to entertain the Near East (Erevan: University Press, 2004), 75 pages, an interesting illus- public after the recent death of his trated study of pre-Christian archeology and writing systems. Gift of the dear friend and legendary singer author. Razmik Panossian, The Armenians. From Kings and Priests to Mer- Aram Asatryan, Armenchik vowed chants and Commissars (New York: Columbia University Press, 2006), 442 to not disappoint his fans. pages with index and bibliography. A modern history from the 17th century The concert began around 8:30 to 1965. PM “Armenian time,” even though James J. Reid, Crisis of the Ottoman Empire, Prelude to Collapse 1839- it was scheduled to begin at 8 PM. 1878 (Stuttgart: Franz Steiner Verlag, 2000), 517 pages, a major study based As the crowd started to get restless on the sources. Gift of the author. and loud, the host of the concert, Armenchik didn’t dance himself, ing absolutely ravishing. Richard Rhorer, New York, NY, (Henry Holt & Company, 2006) for the Benny Blanko (Benjamin Art), ap- he had more than enough gorgeous Armenchik and the extremely book A Shameful Act: The Armenian Genocide and the Question of Turkish peared. He opened the show with a female back-up dancers to perk up gifted young singer serenaded the Responsibility by Taner Akçam. Marisa Soderberg, Boulder CO, (Perseus Books Group), for the copy of comedic routine, uproarious sto- the crowd. listeners with their enormous hit the book Understanding Architecture: Its Elements, History, and Meaning ries, and vivacious music. As soon It was obvious Armenchik put “Inchu.” By their expressions, it by Leland M. Roth (second edition). as the audience was captivated, he his heart and soul into every song. was clear that people were experi- Michael Stone, Dickran Kouymjian, Henning Lehmann, Album of immediately invited back-up danc- Not only did he sing practically encing euphoria from the start to Armenian Paleography, Armenian translation by Gohar Muradyan and Aram ers of all ages to help him break without rest, but he also promised the finish of the concert. Topchyan, under the patronage of His Holiness Catholicos Karekin II dance to songs by artists such as many surprises along the way. The All in all, Armenchik did not (Erevan: Medzn Tigran Press, 2006), 556 pages in folio, with 200 color plates. Missy Elliot, Justin Timberlake first surprise came as soon as he disappoint. No one expected to Levon Ter Petrossian, Selected Speeches, Articles, Interviews (in Arm.), etc... started to sing “Seres Kez Lini.” leave the auditorium with so many Archives of the First (Erevan, 2006), 727 pages. Gift After Blanko and the dance The song was already a major suc- glorious memories. Although of President Ter Petrossian. Levon Ter Petrossian, The Crusaders and the Armenians (in Arm.), vol. group finished their routine, cess with the fans, yet once Andy, Armenchik is known for his mes- I (Erevan, 2005), with bibliography, index, maps in color, 551 pages. A Armenchik graced the audience the famous Persian-Armenian merizing voice, all the surprise presentation with commentary of the most important sources on the Crusades. with his presence. He looked very singer arrived on stage, the perfect guests, the band in the background, Gift of the author. chic and calm as he began to sing a duo was complete. the energetic dancers, the creative Maxime Yevadian, Dentelles de Pierre, e’étoffe, de parchemin et de ballad. Immediately, the entire au- When Andy left the stage, an- lighting schemes, and the fascinat- metal, Les Arts des Chrétiens d’Arménie du Moyen Age (Montélimar: ditorium became silent in order to other exciting guest joined ing costume design certainly made Montélimar Museum, 2006), 167 pages. This first catalogue in what savor Armenchik’s soulful yet pow- Armenchik. Mihran, who is a tal- for a truly unforgettable evening. promises to be a year of exhibition catalogues celebrating the Year of erful vocals. The ballad was espe- ented and well-known rapper and Armenia in France. The work is devoted to an analysis of the styles of cially touching since Armenchik dancer to the stars, such as Ma- and the ornamentation of medieval works of art. Gift donna and Britney Spears, sang of the author. dedicated it to the late Aram Support Zahrad (Zareh Yaldizciyan), Poems, 2 volumes, in Armenian (Istanbul: Asatryan. Following the ballad, “Nerir-Nerir” with Armenchik. The Aras Press, 2006), 534 and 437 pages, boxed. A tribute to one of Istanbul’s Armenchik altered the mood with crowd absolutely fawned over the Hye Sharzhoom greatest Armenian poets, Zahrad, born 1924. Gift of Aras Press and Paylin uplifting music. The seats shook as two stars. When it seemed as though with your Donation. Tovmasyan. Details on Aras Press publications can be found at the audience sang and danced along nothing could top this surprise, www.arasyayincilik.com . to their favorite songs. Even though Christine Pepelyan appeared look- December 2006 Hye Sharzhoom 7 New ASO Executive Begins Year Armenian Origins ZHANNA BAGDASAROV This article was first printed in tion to linguistic comparison, some EDITOR November, 1985. It is being re- ancient historians equate Arme- printed here as part of a series of nians as being Phrygians or having Question 1. What made you in- looking back at the pages of Hye the characteristics of Phrygians. terested in running for ASO of- Sharzhoom. However, some cast doubt on such direct Armenian ties with the fice? RANDY BALOIAN Question 2. What is your biggest Greeks and Phrygians (Wilkinson, goal for ASO this academic year? Tracing the origins of Armenia 1983). Between the 9th and 6th Question 3. How do you hope to is a task which does not lend itself centuries B.C. the kingdom of contribute to the ASO during to simplicity. Since it is likely that occupied the land of what your time as an executive officer? Armenians are descended from a was later to be called Armenia. In collection of different peoples, it is its day, Urartu was a formidable Grigor Kyutunyan–President often difficult to delineate the im- nation; it contained irrigation sys- Major in Business and minor in pact of each group on the ancestry tems, a central government, social Armenian Studies of Armenia. Evidence comes from stratification, an armed force, and three complimentary sources: 1) complex transportation networks. 1. I am a proud Armenian dedi- archaeology 2) linguistic analysis Although archaeological data is cated to serving the Armenian stu- and 3) ancient historical records. good for this time period, it is not dents at Fresno State through the L. to R.: ASO President Grigor Kyutunyan; Public Relations Unfortunately, these sources are quite clear whether the Armenians Armenian Students Organization Officer, Knar Mekhitarian; Treasurer, Pateel Mekhitarian; and often lacking in sufficient quantita- lived within the empire or on its (ASO) and I had always planned to Vice-President, Gary Krboyan. tive or qualitative data. Archaeo- peripheries. Comparison of the be involved with ASO. logical data is more often than not material culture of Urartu and the 2. and 3. My main goal, as Vice- ASO to be not only a club, but an scarce; linguistic analysis is a poor early Armenian nation is presently 2. My biggest goal this academic President, is to expand the ASO effective group of active Arme- indicator for determining absolute not possible, since there is little year is to bring together all the horizons by contributing more time nians who will make a change in dates; and ancient histories are archaeological data available for Armenians that will participate and and effort into our community in the Armenian community in sometimes considered unreliable or the following 4-5 centuries. Unlike be involved in the events and ac- hopes of gaining more recognition Fresno. suspect. It is not surprising then, Armenian, Urartian is a non-Indo- tivities for the 2006-2007 academic as an organization. Furthermore, I that the study of Armenian origins European language and shows close year. would like to increase the number 3. I hope to contribute by gathering contains a shortage of concrete facts affinities with the Hurrian language. of members in our organization so students together and by alerting and a myriad of uncertainty and However, it is known that Arme- 3. I plan on contributing my knowl- that collectively “we” can contrib- everyone about our organization speculation. nian has borrowed Urartian words, edge, networking skills, and abili- ute to our community. and to make the club fun for all the Below is a summary which in- especially proper and geographical ties in performing and providing students. cludes the reflections of such schol- names. A 65 year gap separates the the best services along with my Pateel Mekhitarian-Treasurer ars as Greppin, Burney, Lang, and fall of Urartu (approx. 585 B.C.) fellow executives in giving the Major in Chemistry and double- Knar Mekhitarian- Piotrovsky. Armenia (Armina) was from the first reference to Arme- members great memories, network, minor in Armenian Studies and Public Relations first mentioned by name in 520 nia. History credits the Scythians experience, and fun. I also plan on Spanish Major in Business Accounting B.C. by Darius the Great, King of and with the fatal blow, but organizing new events and getting and minor in Armenian Studies Persia. However, the earliest rea- it is uncertain what role the Arme- as many Armenians involved with 1. I was interested in running for sonable evidence of Armenian ori- nians played in the termination of volunteering and other activities office because I want to be involved 1. I have always been interested in gin comes from the Hittites and Urartu. The only clue comes from during this academic year. in the Armenian community on cam- running for ASO office. Hurrians, both inhabitants of the Greek historian Xenophon (of pus, and I also want other Arme- Anatolia during the second millen- the 4th and 5th centuries B.C.), Gary Krboyan-Vice President nians to get involved. 2. We hope to have as many mem- nium B.C. Although the Armenian who refers to an Armenian revolt Double major in Philosophy and bers as we can, and have fun! language is not thought to be closely during the reign of King Cyrus. Criminology 2. My biggest goal this year for related to Hurrian or Hittite, lin- Cyrus was the founder of the 1. The main reason why I chose to ASO is to try to inform every Arme- 3. I am planning on doing as much guists point out that some words in Achaemenid Dynasty, which re- run for office was because I wanted nian at Fresno State that we are as I can for the club this year, in Armenian could have been bor- placed the Medes as rulers of Per- to increase student participation in fortunate to have an Armenian or- addition to getting involved in the rowed from Hittite and Hurrian lan- sia (550 B.C.). Xenophon goes on volunteer work in the community. ganization on campus, and I want Armenian community. guages (or vice versa). Word bor- to say that Cyrus acts as a mediator rowing is a good indicator of cul- between the Armenians and Thank You Annual Fund Donors Dr. & Mrs. Matthew A. Jendian tural contact. Hurrian and Hittite Alarodians (surviving peoples of (as of November 30, 2006) Roxie Jizmejian nations fell in 1400 B.C. and 1200 Urartu). Cyrus convinces the val- Edward & Allison Karahadian B.C. (approx.) respectively. How- ley dwelling Armenians to allow Benefactors Bethany R. Baker Deneb Karentz ever, this does not rule out the pos- the Alarodians to cultivate the fer- Dr. Arnold & Dianne Gazarian, Lois I. Bedoian Harry Keyishian sibility of these languages being tile soils of the valley, in exchange Berberian & Gazarian Family George & Gail Bedrosian Hapet J. Kharibian spoken afterwards. Therefore, even for tributes and use of Alarodian Foundation Francine Bellefeuille Joyce & Bob Kierejczyk though some links exist between hills for pasture. Martin & Barbara Bohigian Associate Michael Kilijian the and Hittite In analyzing the evidence pre- Mark Bohigian Sara Chitjian Jeanette N. Kirishian and Hurrian languages, it cannot be sented, it seems there are few con- Mr. & Mrs. Jack Bousian Anton & Maral Kismetian said when this occurred. Although sistencies and patterns from which Patron Clara Bousian Mr. & Mrs. Norman J. Kondy Armenian and Hittite are Indo-Eu- to form any concrete hypothesis. Oscar & Jan Kasparian Emma Bozmagian Elizabeth B. Koojoolian ropean languages, linguists con- The emergence of Armenian cul- Brian Calhoun, Ph.D. Girair & Christine Kotchian tend that both languages had been ture appears to be a synthesis of Friends Councilmember, City of Fresno Alex Kouyoumdjian separated for a considerable amount Indo-European and indigenous Varouj & Lena Altebarmakian Markar & Grace Chitjian Bill & Kati Litten of time. Thus, any Armenian con- Anatolian elements. Yet, without Armenian General Benevolent Leland G. & Ollie Collins Harry O. Madanyan tact made with the Hittites would further data, any less general state- Union (AGBU), Fresno Helen Parnagian-Corrigan Rosalie Mahakian have occurred long after the initial ment will be based on speculation. Tarjian & Harriet Bedoian Earlene Craver Shoghère Markarian Hittite migration into Anatolia Furthermore, if Armenians were Sponsors Bob Der Mugrdechian Jack & Eva Medzorian (2000 B.C.). descended from a particular tribe Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Chooljian Dr. Vartan & Sossie Djabrayan Vahe & Armine Meghrouni The southern migration of the (a self admitted speculation), it is Nerces Leon Dermenjian Stephen T. Dulgarian Paul & Stacie Melikian early Greeks and Phrygians consti- very unlikely that any evidence Dr. Heratch Doumanian Richard & Anne Elbrecht Clifford Melikian tuted a later Indo-European incur- could be found to prove this; tribes Kathleen Friebertshauser Howard & Dorothy Emirhanian Charles Merzian sion into Minor and the sur- usually do not develop any written Edward V. Hagopian Lillian K. Etmekjian Judy Michalowski rounding areas. The Phrygians in form of language or leave much in Mrs. Albert Kabrielian Sam & Betty Farsakian Mid Vally Packing and Supply Co. fact contributed to the demise of the way of distinctive material cul- Brian & Janalee Melikian Dr. Larry R. Farsakian Mr. & Mrs. Armand K. Mirijanian the Hittite empire and later occu- ture. For the time being, it must Robert Mokhtarian John Garabedian Dan Momjian pied former Hittite territories. Ar- suffice to say that early Armenians, The Bedrosian Family, Bud Gaston Lillian & Moorad Mooradian menian shows close linguistic simi- like their modern counterparts, were National Raisin Company Annie Graham Alice Muradliyan larities with both Greek and what influenced by a variety of different Arthur & Lily Seredian Dr. Vartan Gregorian Krikor & Michelle Nishanian little is known of Phrygian. In addi- cultures. Kirk & Kathy Yergat Dr. Alexander Grigorian Dr. Arsine Oshagan Annette Gurdjian Richard & Vartouhy Pandukht George Sepetijian Barbara Stepanian Supporters George D. & Julia Hagopian George & Peggy Pehlvanian Walter Sepetjian Charles J. & Mary Tateosian Beverly Achki Carol A. Harootian Irene Peloian Randy Shahbazian, M.D. Sevag Tateosian All Rite Rent-A-Car Araxie M. Haroutinian Gladys K. Peters Dean V. Shahinian Mary Terzian Bill & Florence Antablin Patt Herdklotz Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Dr. Thomas Shekoyan Anna Tookoian Edward & Eleonore Aslanian Dickie Hovsepian Violet & Shahen Raissi- Arminee & Leo Shishmanian Apo Torosyan N. Arthur Astor Krikor & Denise Hovsepian Boodaghian, M.D. Edward Simonian Martin M. Tourigian Armen C. Avakian Charles Jamgotchian Mr. & Mrs. Garbis Sariyan Flo Thomasian Snyder H. Harry Vartanian Arten J. Avakian Paul Jamushian Dr. Leon A. Saryan Edward Sornigian Leon Yengoyan 8 Hye Sharzhoom December 2006

ALBUM, FROM PAGE 1 work. He also specifically thanked The Armenian Studies Program M. Haigentz of the Dolores Zohrab California State University, Fresno in Liebmann Fund for their generous cooperation with the Zoryan Institute and financial gift, as well as Vrezh co-sponsored with the Armenian National Markosian, Director of the Tigran Committee, Fresno Chapter and Mets Publishing House, for the dili- the Armenian General Benevolent Union, gent efforts of his entire staff. His Fresno Chapter Holiness highly evaluated the role of both the English and Armenian present versions of the album in the sphere of Armenian Studies, noting, “This Dr. Taner Akçam work will have the most important significance for researchers and sci- speaking about his new book entists engaged in the history of the Armenian characters (letters), Ar- A Shameful Act: The cover of the Armenian menian art and culture. We are con- The Armenian Genocide language Album of Armenian fident that the joint volumes, which and the Question Paleography. complement one another, will tor of the Armenian Studies Pro- greatly serve the study of our manu- of Turkish Responsibility gram at California State Univer- scripts and ancient writings by Ar- sity, Fresno, spoke on the history menians and non-Armenians alike.” Sunday, January 21, 2007 of the nearly three-year process of In attendance for the ceremony creating the Armenian translation were members of the Brotherhood 3:00PM of the Album. He conveyed the of Holy Etchmiadzin, members of appreciation and gratitude of the the Supreme Spiritual Council, pro- Fresno State Campus authors to the Pontiff of All Arme- fessors and lecturers of the Hold this date!(location to be announced) nians for his support and sponsor- Gevorkian and Vaskenian Theologi- ship in publishing the work. cal Seminaries, and scientists, intel- Free Admission The event concluded with His lectuals, and artists from through- Copies of the book will be on sale Holiness Karekin II addressing out Armenia. Throughout the at the lecture. those present with his message of evening, musical presentations of blessing. The Armenian Pontiff ex- Bach, Komitas, and Babadjanian The 9th International Armenia Semester Abroad Program- 2007 pressed his appreciation to the au- were performed by the string quar- Armenia Fund Telethon Fall 2007 Information thors, translators and editors for tet of the Armenian Chamber Or- from . Raises $13.7 Million Schedule their devoted and conscientious chestra. Eligibility New York, New York - Arme- Applicants must arrive in The program is open to all college th nia Fund USA is pleased to an- Armenia by August 25 , 2007 juniors and seniors and graduate th Eighth Annual Armenian Film nounce that the 9th International Orientation: August 27 - students who have maintained a st Armenia Fund Telethon recorded August 31 (Monday-Friday), 2007 minimum 2.75 GPA. rd Festival at Fresno State to be an unprecedented success raising Classes: September 3 – th more than $13.7 million in pledges November 30 , 2007 Application Process rd th Held in Spring 2007 to benefit the war-ravaged villages Exams: December 3 – 7 , 2007 and Deadline: in the south of Nagorno-Karabakh. Experience a semester abroad in The participant should begin by Spring 2007 English preferred The Telethon was aired on Thanks- Yerevan, Armenia. This one se- requesting a written application di- (Date to be Announced) Films may be on any topic, Arme- giving Day, November 23, 2006. mester program is designed to in- rectly from CSUF, which must be nian theme preferred The ambitious goal to revitalize troduce students to Armenian lan- submitted by April 10, 2006. Please Sponsored by the Armenian Stu- Film must be in video (NTSC)/ the village of Hadrut in the south of guage, history, art, and contempo- note that a minimum of five stu- dents Organization DVD format Karabakh involves implementing rary events. The semester schedule dents must be accepted in the pro- Armenian Studies Program an agricultural development pro- is composed of five courses: gram for the Fall 2006 Semester California State University, Films up to 1 hour in length gram, creating jobs for farmers, • Armenian language (4 units) Abroad Program to take place. Fresno Films may be in any language, building schools and healthcare • Armenian art and architecture Send the application form, and all Partially funded by the Diversity English preferred centers, roads and water pipelines. (3units) requested material to: Awareness Program of the Films may be on any topic, Arme- Funds for this critically needed • Armenia today (3 units) International Programs Office University Student Union, CSU nian theme preferred project have been secured by the • Armenian studies (history) (3 California State University, Fresno Film must be in video (NTSC)/ combined efforts of the 20 affili- units) Fresno DVD format ates of Hayastan All-Armenian • Independent study (2 units) 5300 North Campus Drive Second Call for Entries Fund. Courses, based on curriculum used M/S FF83 Entries are being sought for the Deadline for entries to be received The Telethon, which was broad- by the Armenian Studies Program Fresno, CA 93740-8019 8th Annual Armenian Film Festi- is January 15, 2007. casted in more than 20 major cities at California State University, Phone: (559) 278-6452; val to be held on the California throughout the United States, Fresno, will be taught by faculty Fax: (559) 278-4203 State University, Fresno campus. Please send the video/DVD to: marks the highest result ever Films made by Armenian direc- Armenian Film Festival achieved by almost doubling last tors/writers, or films with an Ar- c/o Armenian Studies Program year’s result of $7.7 million. Presi- menian theme are being sought. 5245 N Backer Ave. PB4 dent of Nagorno-Karabakh Arkady Thank You Donors Films up to 1 hour in length Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Ghoukassian, was present with Anonymous Clovis Films may be in any language, Email: [email protected] many honored guests and program participants at Studios. Eleonore Aslanian San Francisco Emma Bozmagian Fresno Lilyan Chooljian Fresno HYE SHARZHOOM Vicki M. Coughlin Fresno NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT Christine Darmanian Fresno Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the Leroy Davidian Fresno world. Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts Karl Deklotz Fresno with donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance Dennis & Nancy Deovlet Villa Park because of increased mailing costs. John Garabedian Fresno Armand Gougasian Clovis Yes, I would like to support the Hye Sharzhoom mailing expenses with a John & Karen Hovannisian Visalia donation of: Rose Krikorian Fresno $ Alma Margosian Fresno Leonard Nersesian Bell Canyon Name: Warren Paboojian Fresno Address: City: State: Zip: Lucille Paul Fresno Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Fresno Please make checks payable to Armenian Studies Program and send to: Chuck & Debbie Poochigian Fresno Armenian Studies Program David S. Barsamian Pasadena California State University, Fresno Nubar Tashjian Oakland 5245 N Backer Ave M/S PB 4 Daniel Terzian Fresno Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Robert & Cynthia Tusan Laguna Niguel